Chinese beverage giant Mixue Ice Cream & Tea has closed 428 overseas outlets in the past year, primarily in Vietnam and Indonesia, amid market saturation and internal competition. Despite these closures, the company continues selective expansion into markets like the US and Kazakhstan, while shifting to larger, strategically located stores to boost efficiency. Financially, Mixue reported strong growth in 2025, with revenue up 35% to CNY 33.56 billion and net profit rising 33% to CNY 5.93 billion, indicating that its efficiency measures are supporting overall business resilience.

The National Counter-Terrorism Agency (BNPT) is bolstering national resilience by conducting socialisation events on preventing violent extremism leading to radicalism in schools, such as at SMAN 1 Jamblang in Cirebon, West Java. BNPT Head Eddy Hartono highlighted the risks of digital content exposure, noting that students are vulnerable due to factors like bullying, family conditions, and economic issues, with radicalisation now accelerating to 3-6 months via social media compared to years previously. The initiative underscores the particular susceptibility of children and women to extremist ideologies on platforms like YouTube, Telegram, and TikTok, aiming to enhance digital literacy and foster peace commitments among youth.

Professor Saiful Mujani, a political science expert from UIN Syarif Hidayatullah, has been reported to the National Police's Criminal Investigation Agency (Bareskrim) by Presidium Kebangsaan 08 for alleged treason and incitement related to statements calling for the ousting of President Prabowo Subianto. The report, filed on 10 April 2026 and followed up on 22 April, accuses Mujani and Islah Bahrawi of exceeding democratic freedoms by stirring public unrest. This marks the second legal action against Mujani, following a similar incitement report to Polda Metro Jaya, highlighting tensions over political expression in Indonesia's democracy.

The DKI Jakarta Civil Registry Service has recorded 800 new migrants or non-permanent residents entering South Jakarta as part of efforts to track incoming populations. This data collection aims to distinguish between those intending to settle permanently with transfer documents and temporary residents for work, education, or family reasons, facilitated by streamlined digital registration processes. Local officials and residents highlight the benefits of these services in updating community data, amid government reminders for migrants to prepare documentation and secure employment or housing ahead of post-Eid returns.

The Indonesian government has decided to postpone the introduction of new taxes or increases in existing rates until there is a significant recovery in purchasing power and the economy approaches its six percent growth target, aiming to maintain economic momentum. Finance Minister Sadewa emphasised that decisions will be guided by multiple indicators such as overall growth and consumer confidence, rather than a single benchmark. While tax revenue has risen 20.7 percent year-on-year to Rp394.8 trillion by March 2026, proposals like imposing VAT on toll roads will undergo thorough review to avoid disrupting fiscal stability.

Indonesia's Minister for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection, Arifah Choiri Fauzi, has stated that the newly promulgated Domestic Workers Protection Law (UU PPRT) does not yet include detailed regulations, with specifics such as wages to be addressed in forthcoming derivative rules within 45 days. The law, celebrated as a significant milestone on Kartini Day after 24 years of advocacy, guarantees domestic workers basic rights including fair pay, reasonable working hours, healthy food, social security, humane treatment free from violence, and legal protection, while also recognising them as formal workers and involving local communities like neighbourhood associations in oversight. This legislation not only safeguards workers but also protects employers by mandating reporting of employment details to local RT/RW units, aiming to resolve disputes at the community level and promote broader social equity in household labour practices.

Two Colombian nationals, a man and a woman, were detained by immigration officers in Bantul for performing acrobatic street shows and soliciting donations, which violated their tourist visa conditions. The couple, who entered Indonesia on a Visa on Arrival in March 2026, used the earnings to cover daily living expenses, leading to their passports being seized and administrative detention under immigration laws. Authorities emphasized a selective policy for foreigners and warned of potential deportation or criminal proceedings, urging the public to report suspicious activities.

The Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) is evaluating the implementation of Marine Spatial Utilisation Conformity (KKPRL) for the strategic national project Surabaya Waterfront Land, emphasising the balance between development needs and natural processes to ensure sustainability and inclusive growth. Experts highlight the importance of integrating ecological, social, and economic pillars in the reclamation of six artificial islands spanning 1,084 hectares with a Rp72 trillion investment, including a special economic zone for modern integrated fisheries. This evaluation aims to accelerate environmental approvals, improve documentation, and enhance community engagement amid geopolitical uncertainties.

Central Java Police's Special Criminal Investigation Directorate uncovered an illegal vehicle smuggling operation to East Timor, seizing 52 vehicles including 46 motorcycles, 4 cars, and 2 trucks from two containers and a warehouse in Klaten. Two suspects were arrested: AT, the warehouse owner, financier, and connector to buyers in East Timor, and SS, an intermediary who arranged the forwarding services. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat cross-border smuggling, with the suspects facing up to six years in prison under relevant laws.

Capital Group CEO Mike Gitlin advises young Gen Z investors to prioritise long-term wealth building over short-term trends or hobby investing, warning against focusing on volatile commodities like gold and oil for extended periods. He recommends starting with simulated paper portfolios, conducting thorough due diligence using AI tools, and emphasising company fundamentals rather than market fluctuations. This guidance comes amid a reported decline in Gen Z's trust in financial institutions, as per the World Economic Forum's Global Retail Investor Outlook.

Abdul Azis, a 45-year-old honorary teacher in Jakarta, was gifted a new motorcycle by volunteers after cycling 6 months from West Jakarta to his school in North Jakarta to teach. The emotional handover occurred at Madrasah Ibtidaiyah Nurul Islam 1 in Kamal Muara, following his supervision of a class six exam, and was funded through donations by the Gerak Bareng volunteer organisation. Azis expressed profound gratitude and called for greater government attention to the welfare of honorary teachers, highlighting the broader struggles faced by educators in similar positions.

Russian authorities detained at least 40 Israeli citizens, including children, at Moscow's Domodedovo Airport for several hours, subjecting them to intense interrogations, phone searches, and political messages regarding Russia's alliance with Iran amid the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed the incident and has issued a travel warning advising against visits to Russia, while the Russian ambassador denied the allegations of mistreatment and compared procedures unfavourably to those at Israel's Ben Gurion Airport. This episode highlights escalating diplomatic tensions between Russia and Israel, potentially impacting bilateral travel relations.

The Indonesian electric vehicle owners' community, EVOLVE, has strongly opposed a new regulation from the Ministry of Home Affairs that imposes vehicle taxes on electric cars, arguing it undermines the national energy transition and zero-emission commitments. The group warns that removing incentives could deter consumer interest, hinder ecosystem development, erode investor confidence, and increase ownership costs amid global energy instability. They urge the government, particularly Interior Minister Tito Karnavian, to revoke or amend the rule and establish a clear, phased roadmap for incentives to support sustainable adoption.

The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) has summoned three directors from Hajj organising bureaus— one in North Sumatra and two in Jakarta—as witnesses in the ongoing investigation into alleged corruption in the 2023-2024 Indonesian Hajj quota. This examination follows the determination of former Minister of Religious Affairs Yaqut Cholil Qoumas and Ishfah Abidal Aziz as suspects, with a state financial loss estimated at Rp622 billion by the Supreme Audit Agency (BPK). The case highlights persistent issues in managing religious pilgrimage allocations, underscoring the KPK's efforts to combat corruption in public administration.

Fitch Ratings has upheld the BBB credit rating with a negative outlook for Indonesia's major state-owned banks—BCA, BRI, BNI, and Bank Mandiri—aligning with the country's sovereign rating amid policy uncertainties. Despite the downgrade in outlook, the agency views the national banking sector as robust, supported by strong capitalisation, adequate loan loss provisions, and projected economic growth of 5.1% in 2026 and 5% in 2027, surpassing the average for BBB-rated nations. BCA's dominant market position, stable funding base, and consistent financial performance further bolster its credit profile, enabling it to outperform peers across business cycles.

The Ministry of Tourism is collaborating with Swisscontact to enhance the quality of human resources in the tourism sector by bolstering vocational education and training at Politeknik Pariwisata (Poltekpar) institutions. This partnership, now in its second phase from 2024 to 2027, emphasises innovative approaches such as industry-based curricula and learning programmes to produce skilled, adaptable graduates ready for the global tourism industry. The initiative underscores the strategic role of Poltekpar in institutionalising these efforts to support sustainable and competitive tourism development in Indonesia.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono stated that negotiations to free two Pertamina oil tankers detained in the Strait of Hormuz are growing more complicated due to internal challenges in Iran, which hinder policy implementation on the ground. He participated virtually in a conference initiated by Britain and France with over 20 countries, where participants rejected any fees or tolls for passage through the strait, affirming the principle of freedom of navigation, and supported diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions. Plans for international protection of ships transiting the vital waterway are under discussion, in line with UN mandates.

Following the recent enactment of the Domestic Workers Protection Act (UU PPRT) by Indonesia's House of Representatives, BPJS Kesehatan has ramped up educational efforts on the National Health Insurance (JKN) programme specifically targeting domestic workers. The new law, approved after nearly 22 years of deliberation as a tribute to Kartini Day, mandates health and employment social security protections under Articles 15 and 16, with premiums either covered by the government for eligible recipients or by employers through work agreements. This initiative aims to foster awareness among employers and workers to ensure optimal protection and equity for this vulnerable group.

Indonesia's Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Mochamad Irfan Yusuf, has confirmed that all 391 pilgrims from the first quota at Embarkasi Jakarta-Pondok Gede have fulfilled their administrative requirements before departing for Saudi Arabia. The rigorous verification process covers travel documents, Hajj visas, and health data to prevent rejections and ensure smooth worship activities. This measure, including a reserve pilgrim scheme, underscores the government's commitment to managing the 1447 H/2026 M Hajj operations effectively amid quota constraints.

Heavy rainfall in Tabanan, Bali, has caused a follow-up landslide on the western embankment of the road connecting Peken Belayu and Kukuh villages in Marga subdistrict, with significant debris falling into the Yeh Ge River and creating large waves that reached a nearby temple area. Local authorities, including the Marga subdistrict head and village leader, have reported the incident to Bali's Public Works Department, urging immediate attention to prevent further risks, while heavy vehicles are banned from the route and residents advised to avoid the area. This event highlights vulnerabilities in provincial road infrastructure amid adverse weather, potentially endangering communities if not addressed promptly.

President Prabowo Subianto is set to undertake a state visit to France in the near future to bolster bilateral relations, following his recent meeting with President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. The discussions emphasised deepening cooperation in defence, including technology transfer beyond mere procurement, as well as education in STEM fields, energy, critical minerals, creative economy, infrastructure, and transportation. This visit underscores the strategic importance of the personal rapport between the two leaders and aims to elevate Indonesia-France ties to a more comprehensive partnership.

President Prabowo Subianto, upon returning from a state visit to South Korea, announced plans to boost the number of K-pop concerts in Indonesia to delight local fans, as discussed with President Lee Jae Myung. The visit also secured Memorandums of Understanding worth US$10.2 billion, focusing on strategic sectors including energy, green transition, manufacturing, digital technology, and infrastructure. This initiative underscores Indonesia's efforts to strengthen bilateral ties with South Korea, blending cultural exchanges with substantial economic commitments for mutual growth.

Bank Indonesia Governor Perry Warjiyo stated that the rupiah exchange rate has been kept relatively stable, reaching Rp17,140 per US dollar on 21 April 2026, marking a 0.87% weakening from the end of March 2026. To counter global financial uncertainties, BI has intensified foreign exchange interventions in both offshore and domestic markets, strengthened monetary instrument interest rates to attract foreign portfolio investments, and adjusted thresholds for foreign exchange transactions starting April 2026. Looking ahead, BI anticipates the rupiah to remain stable and potentially strengthen, bolstered by the central bank's commitment, attractive yields, and Indonesia's solid economic growth prospects.

The Indonesian government aims to commence groundbreaking for five waste-to-energy (PSEL) projects in June 2026, as part of a broader initiative to develop such facilities across 30 agglomerations covering 61 districts and cities. These projects, located in Bekasi, Yogyakarta, Greater Bogor, Greater Denpasar, and Greater Bandung, align with the National Medium-Term Development Plan targeting 100% waste management by 2029 amid daily national waste generation of 141,926 tonnes and limited landfill capacity. By adopting waste-to-energy technologies like incineration, the programme seeks to reduce waste by approximately 33,000 tonnes per day—equivalent to 22.48% of the national total—while generating electricity, with opportunities extended to all qualifying urban areas producing over 1,000 tonnes of waste daily.

Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan (Zulhas), has disclosed that the government's large-scale food assistance programme has depleted supplies of the affordable cooking oil Minyakita, leading to shortages and price increases in traditional markets. To address this, the government plans to coordinate Minyakita distribution primarily through state-owned Bulog to ensure traditional markets are adequately supplied, while allowing food aid to use alternative brands at the same price to avoid further disruptions. This move aims to restore market balance, as Minyakita was originally intended for traditional markets as a packaged alternative to bulk oil.

State-owned logistics firm Perum Bulog has announced that 100 post-harvest infrastructure sites, spread across 26 regional offices and 92 districts/cities, have been fully approved during a limited coordination meeting of the Coordinating Ministry for Food Affairs. The next steps involve administrative processes, including signing by the Minister of Agriculture and the Coordinating Minister for Food, following 100% approval of feasibility studies, technical considerations, and state-owned enterprise assessments. These facilities, tailored to local potentials and including warehouses with capacities from 1,000 to 3,500 tonnes plus dryers, rice milling units, and packaging, are expected to collectively accommodate around 900,000 tonnes, enhancing Indonesia's food security and agricultural logistics.

Indonesia is evaluating a US proposal for overflight access for military aircraft, which was revealed ahead of the signing of a Major Defense Cooperation Partnership agreement. Officials emphasise that any discussions will prioritise national sovereignty and interests, aligning with Indonesia's independent and active foreign policy, while cautioning the public against viewing it as a threat. The matter has raised concerns about potential impacts on Indonesia's airspace control and its neutrality in the US-China rivalry in the Indo-Pacific.

The Indonesian rupiah weakened to Rp 17,180 per US dollar on Wednesday, pressured by a massive Rp 833.96 trillion debt maturity in 2026, marking the highest level in the past decade and posing significant liquidity challenges for the government. This 'debt wall' exceeds the 2025 figure and peaks within the 2025-2036 repayment cycle, forcing large-scale refinancing efforts amid global financial uncertainties. Bank Indonesia maintained its benchmark BI Rate at 4.75 per cent to bolster rupiah stability against deteriorating global economic conditions, including Middle East conflicts.

Changan Automobile has developed the innovative 'Golden Shield' technology to bolster battery safety and performance in its electric vehicles, addressing user concerns over energy density, charging efficiency, cycle life, and low-temperature operation. Collaborating with CATL for battery cells, Changan's in-house packaging solution ensures over 5,000 cycles with minimal degradation, zero overheating incidents in over 1 million vehicles, and advanced features like AI-based life cycle control and high-frequency pulse heating for rapid charging even at -30°C. This technology not only achieves 86% energy efficiency through Cell-to-Vehicle integration but also enhances vehicle safety and cabin comfort, positioning Changan as a leader in sustainable automotive innovation.

After 22 years of stagnation, Indonesia's House of Representatives (DPR) has finally passed the Domestic Workers Protection Bill (RUU PPRT) into law on 21 April 2026, marking a significant step towards safeguarding the rights of domestic workers (PRT). Key provisions on wages are based on agreements between employers and workers rather than a fixed minimum, with further details to be outlined in government regulations, while ensuring entitlements like religious holiday allowances (THR) and social security benefits. DPR officials emphasise the law's principles of familial relations, welfare, human rights respect, and justice, aiming to prevent employer abuses in a culturally nuanced employment context.

The West Java Education Department has revealed that 3,823 honorary teachers and support staff have not received their salaries for March and April 2026 due to regulations from the Ministry of State Apparatus Utilization and Bureaucratic Reform. The total outstanding amount is approximately Rp14 billion, and the department is coordinating with Governor Dedi Mulyadi to resolve the issue, who plans to meet the ministry directly. This delay highlights ongoing challenges in compensating essential educational personnel amid a broader need for 60,000 educators in the province.

Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan has warned that escalating tensions between the US and China in the Pacific could lead to far more devastating consequences than the current conflict in the Strait of Hormuz, which he described as merely a 'simulation'. He emphasised Singapore's commitment to neutrality, operating under UNCLOS to ensure free navigation in the Strait of Malacca, and stressed the economic importance of rebuilding international trust amid global geopolitical uncertainties. This stance highlights Singapore's strategic position as a key trading hub reliant on stable relations with both superpowers.

Pasar Santa in South Jakarta has seen a significant decline in visitors and sales, contrasting with the resurgence of Blok M as a youth magnet, according to local vendors. Traders attribute this to shifting consumer behaviours, including shorter stays, a preference for more modern and consistent alternatives like standalone coffee shops and malls, and the rise of online thrift shopping platforms. The loss of Pasar Santa's curated identity and the fleeting nature of social media trends have further eroded its appeal, highlighting broader changes in urban leisure and retail dynamics.

Bank Indonesia (BI) has decided to maintain its key interest rate, the BI-Rate, at 4.75 percent following the Board of Governors' meeting on 21-22 April 2026, alongside keeping the deposit facility rate at 3.75 percent and the lending facility rate at 5.50 percent. This decision aligns with efforts to bolster the effectiveness of monetary policy adjustments amid a deteriorating global economy due to conflicts in the Middle East, aiming to stabilise the rupiah exchange rate and keep inflation within the 2.5 ± 1 percent target for 2026-2027. The move echoes recommendations from the University of Indonesia's Institute for Economic and Social Research (LPEM UI), which highlighted persistent inflation risks from energy price surges and global uncertainties.

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) has completed the return of Rp 28 billion in funds to the Credit Union of Aek Nabara Parish in Rantauprapat, North Sumatra, with the final transfer of Rp 21.26 billion executed on Wednesday. This follows an initial repayment of Rp 7 billion last week, resolving a significant issue for the parish community. BNI's Director of Human Capital and Compliance expressed gratitude for the cooperation and views the resolution as a positive step for future collaboration.

The Riau Regional Police (Polda Riau) has introduced a hybrid work scheme involving Work From Home (WFH) and Work From Office (WFO) every Wednesday for its personnel, following directives from the National Police Chief to promote national energy efficiency policies. Under this arrangement, two-thirds of staff will work remotely while one-third remains in the office, focusing on administrative roles to ensure operational efficiency without compromising public services such as patrols, traffic management, and emergency responses. This adaptive measure underscores the police's commitment to energy conservation, including fuel savings, while maintaining discipline and service quality through strict internal oversight as per police regulations.

Andri Lau, Co-Founder of Bang Jamin, expresses optimism about the insurance industry's prospects, including insurtech, amid geopolitical turbulence expected in 2026. The company focuses on B2B services for motor vehicles and micro-insurance, with significant potential in credit and property insurance, while innovating to meet specific customer needs such as personal accident coverage for food poisoning, ticket cancellation insurance, and protection for collectible cards like Pokemon. This discussion highlights strategies for insurtech business development in the face of upcoming challenges, as featured in a CNBC Indonesia interview.

The National Nutrition Agency (BGN) has temporarily suspended 20 Nutrition Fulfilment Service Units (SPPG) in Banten province due to violations such as lacking wastewater treatment facilities and poor menu quality, with the highest numbers in Lebak (8) and Pandeglang (7). Suspended units are given one week to rectify standard operating procedures, with permanent closure threatened for repeat offenders. This action underscores BGN's commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, amid an ongoing investigation into a suspected poisoning incident involving 49 students in Cilegon.

Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY), has outlined ambitious plans to expand the country's railway network by approximately 14,000 kilometres outside Java, focusing on Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi, as part of President Prabowo Subianto's national priorities. This initiative aims to reduce logistics costs, bridge regional disparities, enhance national connectivity, and support a transition to low-emission transport, with an estimated investment need of Rp1,100 to Rp1,200 trillion by 2045. AHY emphasised the need for creative financing, private sector collaboration, and integrated planning to address current gaps in railway development and boost its contribution to passenger mobility and freight logistics.

The Head of the Indonesian National Police Traffic Corps, Inspector General Agus Suryonugroho, officially opened the National Samsat Development Coordination Meeting for the 2026 Fiscal Year in Semarang, emphasising the need to enhance synergy in public services, particularly through digital transformation. Attended by key stakeholders including representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, PT Jasa Raharja, and regional police, the event aims to address challenges in vehicle registration and taxation services, seeking innovative solutions for faster, more transparent, and accountable delivery to the public. This initiative underscores the government's commitment to modernising Samsat operations to meet societal demands for technology-driven, efficient services.

Iranian-linked media group Explosive Media is producing satirical Lego videos mocking US President Donald Trump, depicting him in embarrassing scenarios tied to current events like the Epstein files and the Hormuz Strait reopening, which have been shared by regime accounts and even US anti-war protesters. In El Salvador, nearly 490 alleged MS-13 gang members are facing mass trials for over 47,000 crimes, including 29,000 murders, as part of President Nayib Bukele's aggressive anti-gang crackdown. Japan, under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, has approved new export guidelines allowing sales of warships, combat drones, and missiles to 17 approved countries, marking a shift from its post-WWII pacifist stance amid rising global security challenges, while Leicester City faces relegation to England's third tier a decade after its improbable Premier League triumph, exacerbated by financial penalties.

The Malang Swamp City Forest in Cilincing, North Jakarta, remains underutilised as a green open space due to poor road access and its remote location, limiting visitors primarily to local residents. Despite its lush vegetation and cool atmosphere offering a respite from urban heat, the site sees far fewer visitors compared to other city forests in the area, as highlighted by security personnel. Improved infrastructure could unlock its significant potential for recreation and community well-being in densely populated Jakarta Utara.

Legal expert Dr. Sadino from Al-Azhar Indonesia University has criticised local governments' plans to impose a Surface Water Tax (PAP) of Rp 1,700 per palm tree per month, arguing that it deviates from the tax's core philosophy of targeting actual water usage rather than plants themselves. Provinces such as Riau, West Sumatra, and Bengkulu are pushing forward with the tax amid declining central government transfers, with West Sumatra aiming to raise Rp 1 trillion in 2026, primarily from non-smallholder palm plantations, sparking protests from business owners. Sadino urges a review of related regional regulations to ensure compliance with national laws, including the 2022 Financial Relations Law and the 2023 Government Regulation on Local Taxes and Levies.

The Indonesian Directorate General of Taxation's Strategic Plan for 2025-2029 includes a proposal to impose Value Added Tax (VAT) on toll road tariffs as a means to expand the national revenue base. Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has stated that the matter is under review and requires further analysis by the Fiscal Policy Agency before any decision is made, emphasising coordination with the tax authority. He reaffirmed his commitment not to introduce new taxes or raise existing rates until there is a significant improvement in public purchasing power and the economy, aiming to avoid burdening citizens.

Ahmad Doli Kurnia Tandjung, Deputy General Chairman of Golkar Party, has proposed extending the parliamentary threshold to regional legislative councils (DPRD) at graduated levels, such as 4% for provincial DPRD and 3% for district/city levels, compared to 5% for the national DPR. This measure aims to strengthen political party institutions despite concerns over wasted votes, amid ongoing debates influenced by Constitutional Court rulings. The DPR has yet to resume discussions on revising the Election Law, with leaders emphasising the need for a thorough and stable process to avoid repeated legal challenges.

A bullying and violence case involving two students at SMAN 2 Bekasi remains unresolved, with parents on both sides claiming their child is the victim amid failed mediation attempts. The mother of one student fulfilled demands for compensation, an apology letter, and video, yet her child now faces police proceedings, while the other parent insists on legal action after not receiving the video. The school principal revealed that the apology video exists but is being held until a joint meeting, highlighting tensions in handling such incidents within educational institutions.

The Indonesian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Abdul Aziz Ahmad, expressed gratitude to the Saudi government for implementing the fast track or Makkah Route service, which allows Hajj pilgrims to bypass standard immigration checks upon arrival and board buses directly to their hotels. This initiative, currently benefiting half of Indonesian pilgrims, significantly reduces processing time to under 30 minutes, enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience. The measure underscores strengthened bilateral cooperation in facilitating religious travel for Indonesia's Muslim community, with hopes for full implementation in future years.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (Kemendagri) will honour high-performing local governments in 2026 with awards across four key areas: inflation control, unemployment reduction, poverty and stunting alleviation, and creative financing, as a means to incentivise effective governance and national economic growth. This initiative, supported by fiscal laws and regulations, aims to promote clean, accountable administration and accelerate strategic national programmes at the regional level. The event kicks off in Palembang, South Sumatra, alongside the Forum Akselerator Negeri, fostering collaboration among government, business, investors, and academics, and will be moderated by detikcom's Editor-in-Chief with Home Affairs Minister Muhammad Tito Karnavian as a speaker.

PT Bank Negara Indonesia (BNI) has fully reimbursed Rp28.257 billion to the Credit Union of Aek Nabara Parish, completing the recovery of funds embezzled by a former branch head. The final transfer of Rp21.257 billion follows an earlier Rp7 billion payment, marking the resolution of a high-profile case that drew public attention and involvement from top officials like President Prabowo Subianto. BNI expressed apologies to affected parties, particularly the Catholic community, and emphasised its commitment to restoring public trust in banking services.

Indonesia's Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has suggested the potential for imposing fees on ships passing through the Malacca Strait, drawing a comparison to Iran's tariffs on the Strait of Hormuz. He indicated that such revenue could be shared among Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, with allocations based on each country's territorial length, potentially benefiting Indonesia and Malaysia more substantially. However, he clarified that Indonesia is not actively pursuing this approach to exploit the strategic waterway.